Faith Today

October 23, 2026

Pursuing Unity and Peace

“Take every care to preserve the unity of the Spirit by the peace that binds you together.”
Ephesians 4:3

Today's Reflection

Dear Brothers and Sisters, today Frances President Macron calls for giving Ukraine all the means needed to defend its people and infrastructure. This reflects a wider commitment to unity and protection, echoing the scriptural call to preserve peace and justice within our communities and across nations. We are reminded to interpret the times wisely and act in a way that uplifts and safeguards others, pursuing reconciliation where there is conflict.

Coping

When facing difficult news or uncertain times, todays readings encourage us to seek unity and peace within ourselves and with others. Coping is not just about endurance, but about supporting one another with humility, patience, and love, trusting God to bless those who seek Him with a pure heart.

Family

The call for humility, patience, and love applies directly within the family, reminding us to resolve conflicts and strengthen relationships. Like the advice to settle matters before reaching the judge, we are invited to reconcile quickly, maintaining unity and peace in our homes.

Community

Unity is essential in our wider community, especially as we care for each other amidst challenges. The readings urge us to recognize that we are one body, connected by one Spirit—if we seek justice and peace together, we ensure no one is left behind.

Today's Readings

First Reading · Ephesians 4:1-6

[1] I, the prisoner in the Lord, urge you therefore to lead a life worthy of the vocation to which you were called. [2] With all humility and gentleness, and with patience, support each other in love. [3] Take every care to preserve the unity of the Spirit by the peace that binds you together. [4] There is one Body, one Spirit, just as one hope is the goal of your calling by God. [5] There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, [6] and one God and Father of all, over all, through all and within all.

Psalm · Psalms 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

[1] [Psalm Of David] To Yahweh belong the earth and all it contains, the world and all who live there; [2] it is he who laid its foundations on the seas, on the flowing waters fixed it firm. [3] Who shall go up to the mountain of Yahweh? Who shall take a stand in his holy place? [4] The clean of hands and pure of heart, whose heart is not set on vanities, who does not swear an oath in order to deceive. [5] Such a one will receive blessing from Yahweh, saving justice from the God of his salvation. [6] Such is the people that seeks him, that seeks your presence, God of Jacob.

Gospel · Luke 12:54-59

[54] He said again to the crowds, 'When you see a cloud looming up in the west you say at once that rain is coming, and so it does. [55] And when the wind is from the south you say it's going to be hot, and it is. [56] Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the face of the earth and the sky. How is it you do not know how to interpret these times? [57] 'Why not judge for yourselves what is upright? [58] For example: when you are going to court with your opponent, make an effort to settle with him on the way, or he may drag you before the judge and the judge hand you over to the officer and the officer have you thrown into prison. [59] I tell you, you will not get out till you have paid the very last penny.'